Copper Falls (II WI3)

I have climbed this route a couple of times, but the first time is one of my favorite climbing memories. Justin and I climbed this sweet piece of ice on February 7th, 2014 – a few weeks after I went ice climbing for the first time ever with my school’s outdoor program. I was not sold on ice climbing before we did Copper Falls – I didn’t mind the cold, but I did not understand the technique or have the right equipment. However, everything “clicked” on this route – and I’ve been in love with ice climbing ever since. This route is only 2.5 hours from Spokane and makes a great pit stop if you are on your way to or from an ice climbing trip to Canada.

Justin flaking ropes at the base.

Following the first pitch. Photo: Justin Brown

Route Beta: This route is about 60m long – doable in a single pitch, but probably better done as two pitches. I have heard about a walk-off, but it is often guarded by an impassible pool of frothy icewater. Do one 60m rappel from the top anchor or two shorter rappels. This route is formed by a relatively high volume waterfall – it takes a solid cold spell for it to be in condition to climb.